An expert has called on Brits to rummage through their spare change, after revealing a particular 50p coin that could rake in up to £650. The exclusive piece from 2008 sports two cherished Christmas icons and is sought-after amongst collectors.
Known as the “Snowman and James” 50p, this coin was minted to commemorate Raymond Briggs’ classic book The Snowman’ first published in 1978. Uniquely, the coin originates from the Isle of Man and, although it’s a territory coin, it remains legal tender throughout the UK.
On TikTok, the Coin Collector UK shed more light on the subject, remarking: “£600 to £650 for this Snowman and James 50p. ” He added, “So, if you didn’t know already, territory Christmas 50ps can be worth some serious money. They range really from anywhere from about £12 pounds up to £650.”
But catching one in your change might not be so simple, as he mentioned it is “unlikely” to find such territory coins like those from the Isle of Man in standard UK circulation, stating: “The likelihood of finding them in your change in the UK is quite unlikely because obviously they are territories. I have come across them every now and again but I’ve never managed to find the Christmas one.”
Mirroring this sentiment, The Britannia Coin Company detailed that this special 2008 coin forms part of an assorted collection centred around The Snowman, initiated in 2003. It elaborated further: “This 2008 coin, struck for the 30th anniversary, recreates the 2003 design showing James and his snowy companion ready to take to the air in front of some seasonal fir trees.”
The firm, however, labelled this item as “extremely scarce” and “sought after”, listing it on their website for a cool £750.